Your exclusive experience
Step back in time to the 16th century, where the Savoy nobility indulged in their passion for hunting amidst the picturesque estates surrounding the Palace of Venaria, just a stone's throw away from Turin. The very name 'Venaria' traces its origins to the Latin word 'venari,' meaning 'to hunt.' Witness the legacy of Duke Carlo Emanuele II, who commissioned the construction of this opulent palace between 1658 and 1679. Over the centuries, the Baroque marvel and its elegant French gardens witnessed a transformation - from regal splendor to military barracks under Napoleon's rule and later, serving the Italian military until 1978. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, the palace underwent extensive restoration and welcomed the public in 2007.
Embark on a journey through time with the captivating exhibition, "Theater of History and Magnificence," guiding you through a 1.2-mile exploration of the Royal Palace's ground floor and main floor. Admire the 17th-century allure of the Hall of Diana, the majestic Great Gallery, and the serene Church of St. Hubert. Delve into the elegant living quarters of Duchess Maria Giovanna Battista of Savoy-Nemours and marvel at the exquisite painting collection of Prince Eugene of Savoy, now adorning the walls of Princess Ludovica's apartment. The collection boasts 60 masterpieces from the 17th century, featuring works by renowned artists like Reni, Albani, Cignani, Van Dyck, Brueghel, and other esteemed Flemish and Dutch masters.
Concluding the exhibition is a fascinating segment titled "Lights and Shadows: Restoration in Progress," offering insights into the Palace's tumultuous history spanning the last two centuries - from military occupation to gradual decline. Explore the cultural discourse surrounding the palace's revival, the restoration initiatives, and its renaissance in the late 1990s.
